Applying advanced predictive microbiology techniques to static and dynamic growth studies of Listeria monocytogenes

This project, titled 'Listeria Control,' aimed to advance expertise across Europe in applying predictive microbiology to shelf-life studies of <i>Listeria monocytogenes</i> in ready-to-eat (RTE) products. By increasing the capacity of the two participating organisations in predictive microbiology, this initiative strengthens Europe's overall ability to manage and mitigate the risk of <i>L. monocytogenes</i> in RTE foods. The project's first experimental phase involved experimental trials that examined the growth of <i>L. monocytogenes</i> under both constant and dynamic temperature conditions. Subsequent analysis fitted existing primary growth models to the constant temperature growth data. The resulting models were then employed to predict <i>L. monocytogenes</i> growth under fluctuating temperature scenarios. Given the limited reported research on modelling <i>L. monocytogenes</i> growth in dynamic environments, this work represents a significant contribution to this emerging field. Furthermore, this fellowship facilitated collaboration between IZS-Teramo and UCD, leading to enhanced and harmonised expertise in experimental and predictive techniques for <i>L. monocytogenes</i> shelf-life studies - a partnership that both organisations are committed to continuing beyond the fellowship's duration.